HUTCHISON, Kan. (Dec. 18, 2025) – Is Christmas Cancelled? Not this year! The Salvation Army is giving out Christmas food Boxes and toys for Christmas today, Thursday December 18 from 9 AM to 5:00 PM.
For 132 years, The Salvation Army has been giving toys and food to residents of Reno County. This year children from Reno County will receive toys and more than 900 families will receive a Christmas food box and new blankets. Of course, The Salvation Army cannot do this on their own and has been blessed by the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, organizations, and angels in our midst.
Dillons is a huge part of making it possible to provide food for the 1000 boxes that will be shared. They also help with food drives in front of their stores making it possible for special people in the community to take part in helping their neighbors. “Without the help of everyone in our community, it isn’t possible to help those in need this season. It literally takes everyone pitching in that’s able to give of their time and resources”, said Major James.
When looking at all the toys needed, there are so many groups and businesses who take part and need our thanks. The Angel Tree at Walmart is one of the largest pieces to help get toys for every child from 0-12 year olds. This allows parents the opportunity to share a wish list for businesses and people in the community to adopt a child, several children, or even an entire family. There’s also the Reno County Toy Run that makes up a large portion of the toys we need along with Toys 4 Tots who collects toys for different groups. Major James said, “It’s so humbling and encouraging to see people’s generosity when it comes to making sure children receive a gift. We at The Salvation Army pride ourselves in giving Hope, but this time of year can be discouraging without the support of so many groups.”
The Salvation Army still needs help to reach their operating budget goal this season. With 6 days to go as of Wednesday, they still need $32,123 for their Red Kettle goal, and $180,000 for their overall goal which ends on January 31. “This time is The Salvation Army’s most important fundraising season and we’ve gotten a slow start with so many factors working against and less groups volunteering at the kettle this year. We’ve had an amazing response with toys this year, however, we’re quite a bit behind where we need to be financially at this point in the season.”, said Major James.
Doing the Most Good
Don’t worry, there are still 6 days left to Help The Salvation Army to raise the money needed in their red kettles or to sign up at registertoring.com for a chance to win a diamond ring! It’s also the perfect time to begin thinking about your year-end gift as you think about the tax season. The Salvation Army is a perfect organization to give to with roughly 12% of the population receiving help there every year.
You can mail your donation, drop it off at their local office at 700 N Walnut Hutchinson, KS 67501, or drop it in one of their iconic Red Kettles. You can even go to GiveWithJoyHutch.com and give online! Give with joy this year and help your neighbor.
